TikTok is testing an AI chatbot for content discovery

TikTok could soon have a new way for users to discover content. The company is in the "early stages" of testing an AI-powered chatbot, called Tako, which will be able to recommend videos and respond to queries about what users are watching. The bot, which was first reported by TechCrunch, is currently being tested in the Philippines, TikTok said in a statement. "Tako is powered by a third-party chat assistant and is designed to help make it easier to discover entertaining and inspiring content on TikTok," the company said. Despite being in an early phase of testing, TikTok is apparently featuring Tako fairly prominently in the app. A shortcut to the assistant sits in the main right-hand menu alongside shortcuts for bookmarks, and likes, according to TechCrunch, which got a peek at the feature.